News

Farmers Call for Evidence on Dairy Reduction in Eatwell Guide

07 April 2016

WALES, UK - The Farmers’ Union of Wales has requested proof of the evidence used in creation of the 'Eatwell Plate' healthy eating guidelines, after the recommended consumption of dairy in the diet was almost halved.

The organisation asked Public Health England to release information on the evidence used and the experts consulted under the Freedom of Information Act.

The recommended amount of dairy was reduced from 15 per cent in the old Eatwell Plate to just 8 per cent in the new guidelines.

Many in the dairy sector were extremely disappointed, as the guidance came shortly after the All Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on Dairy highlighted the nutritional benefits of dairy products and supported a 3-a-day policy.

FUW President Glyn Roberts said: “Dairy products provide an important source of protein and calcium and contain essential vitamins and minerals, all of which are needed for a balanced diet.

“Indeed, the exclusion of dairy products from the ‘sugar tax’ demonstrates the role such products play in a healthy diet.”

FUW Milk and Dairy Produce Committee Chairman, Rhydian Owen said: “The Union fully understands the need for a healthy and balanced diet and, as such, is bitterly disappointed in this most recent public health campaign which reduces the significance of the dairy food group.

“A robust evidence base is required when issuing dietary guidance and the FUW seeks to improve the openness and scrutiny provided when ‘evidence’ for nutritional standards is obtained.

“Given the above we have written to Public Health England, on behalf of our members, to request that they make known the documents used to inform their decision.”